Weight Loss vs Fat Loss Part 1

Everyone is talking right now about losing weight but not a lot of people use the word fat. The interesting thing is that we are conditioned to think in terms of weight loss instead of fat loss, and this is how we typically talk about it. I had a break-through in recent years when I finally shifted my focus from scale-based weight loss to fat loss.

When I was focused so much on my weight, it kept me on the scales. What a love-hate relationship! It was exciting when the numbers went down and discouraging when they popped up. When I let it discourage me, it seemed futile to continue pushing forward and I would let it sabotage me every time. I finally changed my mindset when I saw my body and my measurements changing even when the scale weight didn't change. I was able to acknowledge the fact that the scales weigh everything; muscle and water along with fat. So now I use my scales as one gauge over time but not as a primary focus. I certainly no longer let the scales master my mood!

I realized I want lean muscle mass with a healthy percentage of body fat. It is possible to lose weight and still have a body fat percentage that is too high. I know because I've done it. Skinny fat is not what I want to be. By incorporating balanced nutrition (not diets), strength training (weights) and cardio interval training, I'm making progress toward building muscle, dropping body fat and changing the very shape of my body.

I have seen appropriate nutrition and training transform bodies, regardless of what the scales say on a daily basis. Weigh when you need to, but make sure you're taking a look in the mirror, paying attention to how your clothes feel and fit, and please measure your body over time. You will be amazed at the results.